Hello, Ara Pacis, JonClarke et al,
The Cycler Transit System is an interesting concept that could be utilised to further advantage. However an even more advantageous approach is not to go to Mars, but to enable International Crews to commute to Mars.
Wilson Aerospace Systems originated SOMTS in the Late 80`s when it was realised that Mars Exploration Staging would benefit immensly had an additional Planet been located midway between Earth and Mars. So, why not create our own "mini planets" so to speak. The concept was further developed in 2001 / 2002 specifying and submitted to NASA. (No comment there however ?),
A feasibility study was imlemented proposing graduated staging of a Mars Expedition where Astronauts would first travel one third of the way to Mars, and then return to Earth. The purpose of this excercise is deep space hardware and software proving, crew response to extended deep space isolation etc. The primary objective of course is to deliver an International Space Station into a Solar Orbit. A production line manufacturing International Space station would utilise economies of scale to
gradually populate the Earth Mars spatial segment with these Solar orbiting Mars Transit Stations. Each SOMTS would be accompanied by SRB type Rockets to provide commuting Astronauts with return to Earth transportation.

Suggested first level Solar Insertion Orbits are. Earths Orbit of 93.000.000 miles, first level Plus 22,000,000 second level plus 10,000,000
mars Orbit of plus 15,000,000 miles. Approximate Solar Orbit durations are Mars 686 days SOMTS OSO (Outer solar Orbit) 572 days) SOMPS ISO (Inner Solar Orbit) Earth Solar orbit 365 Days, Each ISS would be accompanied by
de-orbit burn capable SRB`s. This is a very expensive permanent Transit System which enhances and maximises crew surviveability. Orbital dynamics may enable a modest reduction in ISS unit requirements wher ISS units may populate a specific sector. Kevin Wilson.